President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called for urgent and coordinated action to curb the increasing number of fatal road traffic accidents in Zimbabwe following a series of deadly crashes that claimed 24 lives within five days.
In a statement released yesterday, President Mnangagwa expressed concern over what he described as a “bloody trail” on the country’s roads after three major accidents left dozens dead and several others injured.
The latest tragedy occurred along the Gokwe-Kwekwe Road where a bus and a haulage truck were involved in a head-on collision that claimed 10 lives.
“In a space of five days, our nation has witnessed three major road traffic accidents in which 24 innocent lives have perished,” said President Mnangagwa.
“This grave turn of mishaps on our roads must exercise our collective conscience and spur Government Departments and Agencies involved in ensuring road safety to act with urgency and greater coordination so the carnage is stopped.”
President Mnangagwa said the recent wave of accidents highlighted the need for drastic measures targeting reckless driving and unroadworthy vehicles.
“The latest spate of accidents calls for drastic measures and lasting solutions targeting irresponsible behaviour and un-roadworthy vehicles on our roads,” he said.
He also directed Government authorities to speed up the re-establishment of road maintenance units across the country to address deteriorating road conditions blamed for contributing to accidents.
“I am also directing Government to speed up the re-establishment of road maintenance units across the country, and to avail adequate resources for impactful remedial work on our weather-damaged highways and roads,” said President Mnangagwa.
The call comes amid growing concern from motorists and transport operators over the poor state of roads, particularly in rural areas where potholes and damaged infrastructure have become a hazard to road users.
Transport and road safety experts have previously urged authorities to strengthen traffic law enforcement, improve road signage and intensify public awareness campaigns on safe driving practices.
As families continue to mourn the victims of the recent crashes, President Mnangagwa conveyed his condolences and wished those injured a speedy recovery.
“As I condole with, and extend Government assistance to the bereaved and affected families, I wish all those injured in the three accidents speedy recovery,” he said.
Government departments responsible for transport safety and infrastructure development are expected to intensify efforts aimed at reducing road accidents and improving travel safety across the country.
